Be it by design or happenstance, Hays struck the ball harder, but less frequently last season. His expected batting average didn't change, but his actual mark jumped 25 points over the previous season. Hays expected and actual slugging percentage increased, fueling a career high 112 wRC+ since becoming an everyday player. Curiously, even though Hays strikeout rate increased, he was less aggressive swinging on pitches in and out of the zone but when he swung, his contact dropped on pitches in and out of the zone. Hays already solid defense in left field improved even more, helping to keep his bat in the lineup even though his production is below average for a corner outfielder. Hays attempted the same six stolen bases he did in 2022, but last season he swiped five, as opposed to just two the prior campaign. It's nothing to count on, but his success from last season could manifest more opportunities. Hays defines boring in a fantasy sense, but boring can help balance swinging for the fences elsewhere. Read Past Outlooks